TPU's Mission

Founded in 1896, Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) is the oldest technical educational establishment in the Asian part of Russia. It has made a great contribution to the development of Russian science, education, industry, and culture. This has been achieved by the common efforts of the scientists, teachers, students, and over 100,000 alumni. TPU is dedicated to providing its students with an education that combines diverse traditions and innovations in the sphere of higher technical education. This particular feature distinguishes TPU from other educational establishments. The leading role of TPU and its significant influence on the Russian culture is shown by the inclusion of TPU into the "List of the most valued objects of the Russian cultural heritage" by the order of the President of the Russian Federation of April 2nd, 1997.

Great emphasis is placed on the following traditions established throughout the centennial history of TPU:

• combination of research and training that provides specialists with profound academic knowledge;
• substantial engineering and practical training of specialists ensuring their better adjustment to the current industrial environment;
• the great demands on students and teachers that guarantee a high quality of training;
• commitment to innovation, urging students, teachers, scientists, and managers to find the most effective ways of performance improvement.

The university creates an environment motivating self-expression and effective problem solving; it worships knowledge and strives for success. That is why the motto of TPU is: "Knowledge. Liberty. Prosperity."

The mission of TPU is to advance knowledge and experience, allowing any individual, society, and Russia as a whole to assess and introduce the best methods of training for the highly qualified specialists and to bring about innovations in the sphere of science and university education.

The major strategies of the university are as follows:

• development of fundamental and applied research;
• formation and development of research and educational institutions;
• collaboration with the leading scientific, educational, and industrial centres;
• motivation of students, teachers, and other employees to integrate traditional academic values and entrepreneurial ideas;
• harmonious development of an individual and training of specialists capable of leadership and effective teamwork, ready to succeed in the conditions of today's competitive environment;
• providing life-long training and showing the pathway to a successful business career.

The accomplishment of the mission is aimed at TPU receiving world recognition as a centre for professional training and innovations in the sphere of university education comparable with top international standards.